Whitney Pier
Margaret M. Mac Donell, CND of Holy Redeemer Convent, died on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at the palliative care unit of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital, Sydney.
Margie was born in Antigonish to the late Colin Francis Mac Donell and Ellen Mae Grant.
From the earliest years of her life, Margie was taught by her parents to be present to the older seniors in her neighborhood by visiting with them by helping them with whatever chores that they needed to have done such as hauling in water, fetching wood for the kitchen wood stove, and simply sitting down with them for a little chat.
Besides her parents, Margie was predeceased by her grandparents and brothers, Grant and Danny.
Margie is survived by her sister, Anne Hyde; sister-in-law, Aurelia; nieces, nephews and her cherished friends.
Education was always a priority in the family home. This thirst for education remained with Margie during her entire life. On August 15, 1963, Margie was professed as a member of the Congregation of Notre Dame. This event steered Margie, the future educator, to teach children and adult faith groups for over forty-five years, the vast percentage of these years in Rocky Mountain House, Alberta.
Before moving to Alberta, Margie taught in schools on Mainland Nova Scotia and Cape Breton.
We might ask the question what were the priorities in Margie’s life? These priorities would include a strong, living faith which was fostered in the family home, relationships, the intellectual development of students, the equality of all people, her cherished friends, and advocating justice for all people. Margie loved the outdoors – the mountains, the hiking trails (sometimes taking a dog along with her), and all the beauty that Alberta has to offer.
Margie was an avid reader all her life- yes, one could say: “There’s Margie with her book.” Margie always followed politics – global and provincial. She had a special interest in Canadian Politics. If one wondered about Canadian politics, who should be our choice for our next Prime Minister, she would give you an authoritative response. “We shall leave that response for you, the individual, to figure that out.”
During her years of teaching at Rocky Mountain Elementary School, Margie became increasingly aware of the bullying and acts of violence among students and even in families. There had to be a solution. Sisters Margie Mac Donell and Catherine Peters went to Florida to participate in courses in Peace Education. Here is a brief snapshot of the Peace Program which became a part of the curriculum of Rocky Mountain Elementary School. The following information was adapted from the book, These Hands by Dave Gunning and George Canyon. “Hands are not for hitting. Hands are for helping. Hands are for playing and hands are for much more!”
In October 2023 Margie returned home to Cape Breton, residing at Holy Redeemer Convent, Sydney, Nova Scotia. We all enjoyed her resilient personality that enlivened our community and the lives of cancer patients. Margie’s battle with cancer developed in the late fall of 2024. When Margie was asked how do you feel about your cancer. Her reply was: “It is what it is.” Margie was asked if she had a message for her family. This is her response “Keep in touch.” Never did Margie allow her cancer to put extra burdens on others. Margie was admitted to the hospital in early February 2025 and died on February 22, 2025.
We will always miss you, Margie, at the same time, we shall remember the consoling words of Evelyn Loughlin, a Scottish Lady from Innisfail, Alberta, “Our beloved dead are with God and God is very near.”
There will be no visitation for the late Margaret Mac Donell, CND. Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 11 a.m. in Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, Whitney Pier with Fr. Paul Murphy officiating. A reception will follow at the Pier Community Funeral Home. Private interment will take place at a later date.
For those unable to attend, Live Streaming will be available on our website. Click Here: Face Book at Holy Redeemer
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care and direction of Pier Community Funeral Home.
Online Condolences
You’re going to be very sadly missed
From: Susan Brun
Our sincere condolences to Sister Margie’s family, the sisters of the Congregation of Notre Dame and all those close to her. I feel truly blessed to have had Sister Margie in my life. I considered her a close friend. Sometimes we would have a few moments to chat when she was waiting to offer the peace program. She was so excited when she would talk about the peace program and Youth Justice. Sister Margie convinced me to volunteer with Youth Justice and Meals on wheels. I was fortunate to have worked with her on several cases with Youth Justice and her genuine love for the child and parents shone through as she listened to their stories and even when she was holding them responsible for their actions. I especially enjoyed being part of the Spiritual book study with Sister Margie and other warm and caring women. She was truly an inspiration to be a better person and have a closer relationship with God. My husband Philip and I always enjoyed visiting with Sister Margie over a meal. She made no bones about not liking to cook and always enjoyed a home cooked meal. Those visits and her great sense of humor will always be fondly remember. We will keep you in our prayers and always miss your physical presence.
May Jesus hold you in His ever loving arms.
Until we meet again,
Marilyn and Philip
To all of Sister Margie’s family and her CND family: My sincere condolences of her passing. Margie and I were good friends when we met in boarding school in Mabou. We were only in touch a few times over the years but connected when she returned to Cape Breton. We were unable to get together as planned but we had a great conversation and it was like old times. Margie was always full of life and a great sense of humor. The world is a better place because of all the wonderful things she has done. Although I feel sad I know she is now enjoying her reward in heaven. Rest in peace Margie. I love you. God Bless. Mary
I first met Margie in 1987, when she would stop by near dismissal time at Ecole Rocky Elementary to check on the French Immersion kids whom she especially loved. In her subtle way, she was always checking in on the parents, too. Margie & Cappy travelled on the FI trips to Eastern Canada & Quebec.
She began the Peace Program with Sister Cappy Peters & the Conflict Resolution Program putting on workshops for even parents, a Peace Garden and raised a Peace Pole yearly. My daughters were lucky to be part of those early years.
Margie & Cappy had their own community
Travelling Soup Kitchen weekly and delivered hot meals at Cosy Roomettes.
I was lucky to become a close personal friend of Margie’s over the years: going out for dinners, walking during afternoons at the Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site daily beginning in 2020, reading and discussing the Saturday Globe & Mail, driving to Book Club, or just sitting on her couch (sharing it with Molly, the dog) & having tea while listening to her many adventures.
One of my favourite recurring stories that Margie told goes like this: when stopped by the local police for a speedy driving infraction, Margie would escape a ticket as soon as they realized who she was or saw her driver’s license which said “Sisters of …” She always escaped with just a warning, and ended the encounter with her classic line, “You’ll go high in heaven.”
Sadly, now, it’s her turn.
You’ll go high in heaven, Margie.
Sister Margie was such a special lady. She brought comfort to all around her. I thoroughly enjoyed working with her. I have lots of cherished memories of going to conferences with her and Sister Cappy. What a joy they were. Sister Margie always had time to stop, visit and ask how the family was doing. Her faith was a guiding light for us all.
My condolences to Margie’s sister Anna. I was sorry to read Margie’s obituary this morning, I never saw her in years but always asked about her when talking to Anne (Mac Intyre) RIP Margie.
I met Margie while in hospital her last week She was in the bed beside my mom. She was a very special person and we loved her from the moment my sister and I met her. We will always remember her kindness and zest for life
My heartfelt condolences to family and those close to sister Margie. I appreciated how she always asked about my son whom she briefly met in his early school life yet genuinely cared about how his life was going. She shon the light of Christ into many dark places with such love and humility. She clearly loved God and was a living testimony to the strength and joy that comes through walking in his ways. Rest in splendour dear Margie. Thank you🩷
Your impact as teacher and counsellor at Rocky Elementary is immeasurable. You will be lovingly remembered by all your students. As a staff member I am so thankful to have worked with you. I learnt so much from you! Condolences to all who knew Sister Margie.
Sister Margie was a great friend and support to our family on many occasions. Heartfelt condolences to family and friends. We will miss her dearly.
What a wonderful lady! She sure helped to make the people of our country much better because she shared in their lives. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
St Margie was such a big part of the community in Rocky Mountain House. As a former staff member at ERE I was fortunate to share in conversations with her. She truly cared about the children and promoting Peace. I loved her sense of humour and laughter. She has touched so many lives. Her kindness will be missed.
Dear Anna I was so sorry to hear about Margie’s passing, what a loss. I haven’t seen her in years but often get a update from Mary Annette. We were all so close years ago and the time just slips by so quickly. Take care and you are in my thoughts and prayers, hugs Emily (Langley) Morgan
Sincere condolences to the CND Sisters, family and friends on their loss of Margaret MacDonell, CND. Margie was always so welcoming whenever the Associates visited Holy Redeemer Convent. She is enjoying that peace we all hope to experience someday.
Deepest condolences CND Associates
We are saddened at Ecole Rocky Elementary to hear of Sister Margie’s passing. She was a blessing to all that met her.
Sr. Margie came to the school as a teacher in 1985. She was instrumental in leading the Peaceable Education program at the school, helping students resolve conflict peacefully and to use their hands for helping. During the 1998 year, Sr. Margie was recognized with the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Teaching. After retiring from teaching, Sr. Margie continued to volunteer weekly at the school. In 2003, she was nominated for a Wild Rose Award of Merit and in 2013, Sr. Margie was presented with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal for her volunteer work at the school. She was gracious as the star of our 2019 Christmas Concert. In 2022, she was a special guest as we celebrated our school Centennial. Sr. Margie delivered her last Peace Day message at the school in June 2023 before relocating to the East Coast. Her message continues to resonate. All totaled up, she had a 38 year impact at the school!
I feel very fortunate to have worked with Sr. Margie. She has been an inspiration to us all.
It was hard enough saying good-bye to Sister Margie in 2023 when she left Rocky Mountain House, a community she had embraced for decades. But, it was a relief to enjoy telephone conversations with her. Then, in July 2024, meeting at Queen’s House in Saskatoon to enjoy her presence further. There, even Molly (my pocket beagle that Sister took over years before)enjoyed more walks along Queen’s House river trails with her best friend, Sister Margie. (I will still meet people on the trail in Rocky wondering why I have ‘that lady’s dog). Now, I am at a loss for words to express my feelings after Sister’s passing. My community has had many seeds planted (not to mention political/social opinions) by this generous, non judgemental lady. Sister would engage anyone and everyone and she seemed to dig deep enough to connect most of those she met to Cape Breton. (I am not joking). What a generous friend. Condolences to her family of who she was so proud. Thank you to her Congregation for her years in our community. I am so grateful she was in my life. Rest In Peace Sister. We will, indeed keep in touch.
My family enjoyed Marg’s company when she visited her sister Anne in PEI for many summers. We would have beautiful conversations about religion, politics, life and love. Margie could speak to any one of any age and find commonality and affection. Her mind and heart were always open.
I will remember her walking the red dirt lanes, her genuine laughter and wonderful curiosity. She was a wonderful example of Christ’s teachings made earthly. May God welcome her as she deserves♥️
Sister Margie was well respected by many at ST Matthew parish. She was a good catholic sitting at the back of the church on the left side of St Matthews Saturdays nights lol, all kidding aside she was a beloved Sister/ lady who participated in the life of the parish in the social and ministerial contributions .I did not know her as well as the others as I am a relatively new to Rocky Mountain house myself. She was always friendly and kind to me. May she rest in peace amen
May she rest in eternal peace!
A lovely soul and she gave her life to protect many and give comfort to others I remember her so well when she decided to go into the convent!!
My prayers and thoughts are with Sr. Margie’s family and friends as you gather to celebrate her life. I have great memories of our CND Sisters gathering in Rocky Mountain House over the years. Margie was a good friend and always ready for fun and laughter.
Sister Frances MacDougall CND
Sister Margie worked with my mum at Rocky Elementary and they remained good friends afterwards. She was a lovely person, so kind and genuine. I have been reading about all the recognition and awards she was given over the years but you would never know about that if you met her. She was so humble and unassuming, making her mark on the world in her own quiet way. I will always be grateful to Margie for being such a wonderful friend to my mum for so many years. My condolences to all her friends and family. She will be greatly missed.
How I have missed my friend, Sister Margie, since she left Rocky Mountain House. She was indeed such a treasure, who could connect everyone she met in her gentle and caring ways. A little group of us walked and talked daily at the National Historic Site for almost two years during the pandemic. Sister rarely missed. Our grand farewell gesture in 2023 was a short canoe trip together in a Voyageur canoe on the North Saskatchewan River. Sister Margie’s great sense of humour and her tireless community service through her many commitments made a lasting impression. I’m so thankful that I had the opportunity to spend time with Margie again in Saskatoon in July 2024. My condolences to her family.
We will keep you in our hearts, dear friend.
When Sister Margie moved to Rocky Mountain House in 1985 with Sister Catherine Peters (Cappy), she was hired by Wild Rose School Division as a school counsellor at Ecole Rocky Elementary School. I had the great pleasure of typing her teacher contract as I worked at WRSD board office. What a true blessing it was for WRSD to gain an amazingly gifted Catholic educator who introduced ‘Peace Education’ to a public school system where students and staff received beautiful teachings from a sister of the Congregation of Notre Dame.
Students affectionately referred to Margie as ‘Mrs. Sister’. With a twinkle in her eyes, she always grinned and giggled when she would share that story with others in her Nova Scotian accent. 💙🏴💙
Please pray for the repose of the soul of Sister Margie MacDonell, CND. Prayers of peace and comfort for all those that mourn her.
🙏🏼💙🙏🏼
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls and all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Those who knew Margie were blessed to have had her in their life. Sometimes, there truly are angels amongst us. 😇
I am saddened to hear of Sr. Margie’s passing. As many who have commented she was a community gem wherever she lived and served. I recall, fondly, my days in Drayton Valley with Sr. Camille Campbell, Sr. K.. Mac Donald , Sr. Kathleen (Lolly)Gorman, Sr. Mary Edna Levangie, and Susan Maclellan and Sr. Francis MacDougall. We were a great crew of Easterners who had a wonderful connection and influence in the West.
She fondly referred to me as the young kid on the block. I offer my heartfelt condolences to Margie’s family and her beloved CND sister! May she rest gently! Margie Gillis
I met Sister Margie a few years ago as we both walked out at the Historic National Park daily. I had my little dog and she nearly always had her neighbours little beagle – Molly! When she found out that I was also from N.S., the bond was formed and we had many good chats about our beloved “homeland”! I looked forward to our visits so much and was so sad when she told me she was moving back! Very happy for her tho! She truly was a beautiful lady, inside and out and a gift to all that were fortunate enough to know her. God Bless you Sister Margie, rest in peace!!!
J’offre toutes mes condoléances à la famille et à la congrégation de Sœur Margie.
I had the honor of meeting Sister Margie in 1987 at Rocky Elementary School .
I was then teaching french immersion grade 1 .
After work ; she would come to my class so I could give her french lessons.She was good at it !
She invited me over to share dinner with her and the others sisters at their home .
She made me feel welcome.
One summer , she came to Université Laval to study french.
I spent time visiting with her and enjoying the old Québec City.
I will always remember Sister Margie .
I will forever be grateful to Sr. Margie and Sr. Cappy for opening up their home to the youth group from St. Matthew’s Parish in the early 90s. While it was Sr. Cappy who led the group, Sr. Margie was always a presence, and I am sad to hear that she is no longer with us. Godspeed.
I remember Sr Margie for her steady presence, her patience, and her sense of humour. She was a treasure.
Sr Margie wasn’t much like the black & white photos of nuns in schools on the Prairies, which was my point of reference as a “Frenchie” kid at Rocky Elementary when the “French-Fry/English Muffin Playground Wars” began at recess. This was before the school was officially named an École.
Sr. Margie wore pants. She ran on the playground. She wasn’t ancient and dusty. (I now realize she wasn’t really even all that old at the time.) She made a mean tray of both crudités & dip and animal cookies.
Sr Margie was great at all the things that really mattered. She never raised her voice. She always greeted you by name. She remembered what you shared. She offered unlimited refills of cookies & crudités. Even better, you could eat them in whatever order you chose. Or just eat the cookies.
My first year teaching, I taught la maternelle or French Immersion kindergarten, and I had a student whose family was proudly from “Cape Breton, not Nova Scotia. It’s an island in the ocean, you know.” I invited Sr Margie for a visit knowing she’d get a kick out of meeting my student, but I intentionally did not mention the Cape Breton connection to either of them. When the day arrived, I didn’t even get to introduce them – they just found one another. Truthfully, I’m not sure who was more pleased by the Cape Breton discovery. When I asked Sr Margie later how she knew, she said, “He walks like he’s from the Island.” Later, as I watched them step away together, their stride matched. I couldn’t help but smile. They were now two Islanders working together on the puzzle that is Canada.
Yes, Sr Margie was a treasure. She wasn’t good at everything but she was great at the things that really mattered.
Our sincere condolences to all who knew and loved Sister Margie.
Sister Margie and Sister Cappy taught catechism classes on Fridays after school (mostly I think to the French Immersion students). I would have thought the kids would be anxious for their weekends, but they looked forward to catechism Fridays. Maybe it was the snacks and cookies always available, but I think there were life lessons. They always left happy and just a little kinder to each other. Later our boys were involved in school programs with Sister Margie at Rocky Elementary.
Our “boys” are now young men with boys of their own. It was always a pleasant interlude to have a chat with Sister Margie. She would ask about our boys remembering their names and recount anecdotes of their past.
What a joy to know Sister Margie! She will be missed.
Sister Margie was a great support to many children during her years @ Rocky Ecole including mine. Always remembered each child & asked about them for years. She never quit helping troubled tweens & had a way with them I’m sure they will never forget.
She was a great reader & lover of libraries, ordering in books you would not expect a nun to read, with a nod & wink of “don’t tell my boss”. She was an absolute treasure & we were all blessed to know her.
“May angels sing thee to thy rest” ❤️